Tottenham Hotspur vs Newcastle United: De Zerbi's Bold Home XI
Roberto De Zerbi has wasted no time putting his stamp on Tottenham Hotspur. On Saturday against Newcastle United, he’s named a starting XI that screams intent as Spurs look to keep their impressive home momentum rolling.
His side arrive at this one unbeaten at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium under the Italian, a run of five matches if you include the summer friendly against Hoffenheim. Confidence is rising too after Wednesday night’s 5-1 dismantling of Charlton Athletic in the Carabao Cup, a first competitive home win of the season that felt like a release.
Now comes a very different test.
Marmoush Straight In, Savio Sidelined
New signing Omar Marmoush goes straight into the team, leading the line after completing his initial loan move from Manchester City. No easing in. No gentle introduction. De Zerbi has thrown him the keys to the attack.
One notable absentee, though, is Savio. He doesn’t even make the squad. De Zerbi revealed to Sky Sports that the winger suffered muscle fatigue on the eve of the game.
“There was bad news yesterday, before training in the afternoon. He suffered muscle fatigue and the medical staff didn’t want to take a risk. I agree with them,” the head coach said, adding that Savio is expected to be available for the clash with Forest next week.
Porro Pushed High, Van de Ven Returns
There’s a significant reshuffle at the back and down the right. World Cup winner Pedro Porro makes his first start of the season and is set to operate high on the right flank, effectively at right wing ahead of Archie Gray. It’s an aggressive call, one that signals Spurs will try to pin Newcastle back rather than sit off.
At the heart of defence, captain Micky van de Ven is also handed his first start of the campaign. His pace will be crucial in dealing with the threat of Anthony Elanga, whose speed on the break has already hurt plenty of back lines.
On the opposite side, Destiny Udogie drops out of the XI after his strong midweek display. De Zerbi and his staff are clearly managing his workload, with Andy Robertson drafted in at left-back to bring experience and control on that flank.
Tonali–Bentancur Axis in Midfield
The engine room has a new look. Sandro Tonali and Rodrigo Bentancur line up together in midfield, a pairing rich in technical quality and bite. Just ahead of them, Mateus Fernandes is expected to operate in the central pocket, tasked with linking the play and feeding Marmoush and the wide runners.
There’s depth in reserve too. Conor Gallagher and Lucas Bergvall both drop to the bench, giving De Zerbi options to change the tempo or add legs as the game wears on.
Big Names Left Out as Kudus Returns
On the bench, Mohammed Kudus is back in the matchday squad after returning to full training. His presence gives Spurs a powerful option if they need a spark in the second half.
But some omissions will raise eyebrows. There is no place for Richarlison, Kevin Danso, or Pape Matar Sarr in the squad, with all three players currently linked with moves away from north London. On a day when De Zerbi’s selection feels like a statement, their absence only fuels the sense that this squad is being reshaped quickly and decisively.
Spurs have their first home league win under their new boss in the bank. The unbeaten home run is intact. Now comes Newcastle, and with this bold XI, De Zerbi has made it clear: he’s not here to play safe.
